| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| lily survival | 10/7/2008 |
Q: I was given what I believe is an Asain lily. It was orange with the black dots on the petals and ...
A: Your "Tiger Lilies" are looking just like they should this time of year. They are a perennial and ...
|
| new plants | 10/6/2008 |
Q: I have just planted some cardinal flowers and a butterfly bush that I was give by someone that just ...
A: John, You can trim the butterfly bush now or in the spring. It's already going through transplant ...
|
| canna lily to reuse next spring | 10/1/2008 |
Q: I have been growing canna lilies in a large pot on my balcony (Long Island NY) we leave for Florida ...
A: Since they are in a pot, can the pot be brought indoors to a place that will be about 50-65 degrees ...
|
| Bittersweet Vines | 9/28/2008 |
Q: Our bittersweet vines, grown on wires, are approximately 10 years old. We have had georgous ...
A: I looked through all my notes and books and research and I haven't a clue why they fell off. You ...
|
| Plants and Butterflies | 9/26/2008 |
Q: I been growing two types of flowers and three types of fruit/veggies in my front yard strawberries, ...
A: A home made butterfly feeding station might be a great idea. You can make a feeder by using a small ...
|
| Rose of Sharon | 9/21/2008 |
Q: I live in Zone 5,Central NY, and my Rose of Sharon are so heavy with flowers in August the branches ...
A: I also live in zone 5 and have several Rose of Sharon bushes. I keep mine trimmed down and they are ...
|
| dead english lavender | 9/19/2008 |
Q: last year I planted 2 English lavender plants. they both did well last year and doubled in size this ...
A: Dig a little around the base of the dying plant. Does it appear that the root system is still in ...
|
| hydrangea | 9/17/2008 |
Q: I have two hydrangea bushes that are four years old. They have never bloomed. They are planted on ...
A: Here is my favorite and the best website that will answer ALL your questions about hydrangeas. I ...
|
| Winterize Flowers | 9/13/2008 |
Q: Can I winterize lantana in 4" pots that i have rooted all so roses an crept myrtle I live in ...
A: Lantana and the other plants are hardy in growing zones 9-11. If you are on the fringe of zone 9 ...
|
| asian lilies | 9/1/2008 |
Q: I live in west central new jersey my question is can I transplant my lilies now or do I have to wait ...
A: September and October are the prime months to divide lilies. Here is a website that details how ...
|
| When to divide toad lilies | 8/31/2008 |
Q: I would like to know when is the best time to divide toad lilies, and how often? This is their ...
A: If your toad lily clump needs dividing, do so in the early spring before they break dormancy. ...
|
| Hydrengas | 8/30/2008 |
Q: For some reason this year my Hydrangeas blooms are brown. I notice that the ones down the street are ...
A: When having your lawn sprayed it is always a good idea to cover the shrubs and other plants you ...
|
| hibuscus... | 8/29/2008 |
Q: I have had all my hisbucus dug up. Roots and all I thought. Now I find they are growing back. I ...
A: Linnie, If you can find a product called "Roots 'n All" spray it heavily on what is left of the ...
|
| clematis | 8/26/2008 |
Q: i have moved in to a new house and at my old house i have a huge clematis and i want to move it to ...
A: The best time of year to move an existing clematis is while the plant is dormant before the new ...
|
| Pots | 8/23/2008 |
Q: Can you suggest some plants for outdoor pots that don't require a lot of watering? ANSWER: Dear ...
A: What a lucky person!!! You can use so many of the plants and natural grasses that are available. ...
|
| established perennial garden | 8/19/2008 |
Q: How can i improve my soil in an establised perennial garden? It seems alot of plants turn yellow & ...
A: Super Soil Mixture: In the established garden areas, I use a shovel or pitchfork to turn the ...
|
| cyclamens | 8/13/2008 |
Q: Can cyclamens change colour?. I bought a lovely deep red one and three weeks later it turned pink. ...
A: Cyclamens grow from tubers that hold water and nutrients to support the plant during its dormant ...
|
| hibiscus | 8/11/2008 |
Q: i found trpical hibiscus watering on your site, but i think i have a hardy hibiscus. it is a tree, ...
A: Good Morning Joy! Definitely do not trim or prune. Go to this site and let me know if the flowers ...
|
| hibiscus | 8/8/2008 |
Q: i found trpical hibiscus watering on your site, but i think i have a hardy hibiscus. it is a tree, ...
A: Joy, What you have is called a Hardy Hibiscus and it is left outside. In fact it will look as if it ...
|
| Butterfly Blue Scabiosa | 8/7/2008 |
Q: I am looking at purchasing this perennial. I live in Minnesota and would like to know the best time ...
A: The best place to buy your perennials are in your local area. Most of them were grown FOR your ...
|
| how big a rootball to move a rose-of-sharon | 8/5/2008 |
Q: My mother-in-law has a very large (ten feet+) rose of sharon bush that we need to move while the ...
A: My, what an undertaking--a fragile one, indeed! I'm going to refer you to this website that deals ...
|
| rose of sharon | 8/2/2008 |
Q: I have had a rose of sharon tree for three years. It gets buds by mid July. It gets buds by mid July ...
A: It is possible that the shrub produced more buds than its roots could feed. A plant this size with a ...
|
| Climbing perennials that do not attract bees | 7/29/2008 |
Q: We live in Chicago and are planning on building a pergola in our very sunny backyard. We would like ...
A: Jessica, I'm sorry I keep bugging you but I was out in my yard last night thinking of all the ...
|
| calalilly | 7/23/2008 |
Q: I am fairly new to gardening and am having a blast. I planted numerous plants this year and am ...
A: Gardening is great therapy-it keeps you grounded, so to speak. I am originally from Alaska and only ...
|
| Gerbera Daisies | 7/22/2008 |
Q: I plant Gerbera Daisies in pots outside in the summer and they bloom quite well. I keep them in a ...
A: While wintering them over, keep them in a cool place that is mostly dark. If you put them under ...
|
| easy care perennials | 7/21/2008 |
Q: I live in NH and recently lost both my parents. Is there a perennial that I can plant by their ...
A: What a lovely idea. I can think of 3 shrubs that are easy to care for. All 3 need to be cut back ...
|
| Tiger Lilies | 7/20/2008 |
Q: My question is regarding my orange tiger lilies that are growing in front of my kitchen window. ...
A: There is no way to "shorten" tiger lilies. It sounds like you really need to thin them out, divide ...
|
| Clematis Vine | 7/15/2008 |
Q: My Clematis bloomed very beautifully in the early summer, it looks like is dying now. I did ...
A: I doubt if the Preen did anything. Clematic goes through phases. Be sure to water frequently and ...
|
| Hydrangeas | 7/11/2008 |
Q: I have a hydrangea that gets both sun and shade. The flowers only appear on the shaded side and the ...
A: I'm probably not the best person to answer this question-I've killed every hydrangea I've ever ...
|
| 'Sweet Dreams' Hydrangea | 7/7/2008 |
Q: I bought a 'Sweet Dreams' hydrangea this spring. The only thing that was on the tag was it's name. I ...
A: Go to this website for the care of your hydrangea-Sweet Dreams is one variety of the "Lacecap ...
|
| pruning rose of sharon | 7/6/2008 |
Q: I have a large Rose of Sharon tree/bush. I believe it is approx 20 years old as that is how old the ...
A: This fall after the bush has finished blooming you can trim it back to whatever height you desire. ...
|
| Hibiscus | 7/4/2008 |
Q: What is the scientific name of Dinner Plate Hibiscus?
A: Carol, Hibiscus moscheutos is the scientific name for the Hardy Hibiscus. Theyse always surprise ...
|
| hollyhocks | 7/3/2008 |
Q: HOW do I get rid of rust on my hollyhocks?
A: Nancy, Hollyhocks develop a fungus called RUST which is caused by Puccinia malvacearum, an ...
|
| phlox and ferns | 7/1/2008 |
Q: when is the best time to divide creeping phlox? My patch is very dense and I wish to divide and give ...
A: Barbara, I would wait until after the creeping phlox has bloomed then trim it back and divide. ...
|
| Stella D' Oro Daylily | 6/29/2008 |
Q: I have had Stella D oro daylilies in my yard for years. The last few years they have gotten little ...
A: Martha, You're in my old "stomping grounds", I went to med school at St. Louis Univ! Love the ...
|
| climbing hydrangea | 6/27/2008 |
Q: I bought a non-refundable climbing hydrangea for a lamp post. I now notice it grows to a height of ...
A: Maggie, Lucky you!!! The root system should not hurt the electrical. You can trim this plant ...
|
| Hibiscus flower | 6/19/2008 |
Q: ..are on my small tree I just purchased at the nursery. Tonight I notice at dusk that the flowers ...
A: Mary Jo, You have the perfect plant in a perfect place. It is performing exactly as it should. I ...
|
| Transplanting perennials | 6/18/2008 |
Q: I live in NJ (zone 6), and I planted quite a few bulbs into my garden this past month. After they ...
A: Milly, Fall would be the best time to transplant your plants. Spiderwort really likes all ...
|
| Cala lillies | 6/17/2008 |
Q: I have several cala lillies in pots that were at my Mom's and she recently passed away. Many seem ...
A: Ann, Calla lilies can be put in the ground in the spring to bloom in the summer but they need to ...
|
| Hibiscus growing in Utah | 6/16/2008 |
Q: My grandfather gave me four baby hibiscus plants. I've been on here reading for hours and, I don't ...
A: Lindsay, You "probably have the tropical" hibiscus if there is only one or two main stems. The ...
|
| cali lily | 6/15/2008 |
Q: I have two plants that I have outside. The leaves are turning brown. I understand that I have to ...
A: Sandra, When the foliage turns yellow or dies due to the frost, carefully dig up the large ...
|
| unknown plant | 6/14/2008 |
Q: I have a succulent, i think. thick waxy leaves, new leaves are white. older leaves bluish with pink ...
A: Jennifer, Here is a page of images for all the varieties of kalanchoes: ...
|
| Pruning Perrenials | 6/13/2008 |
Q: I live in Brooklyn, NY. When is the best time to prune my English Holly and my Golden Euonymous ...
A: John, Pruning English Holly Step1 Prune in December. It is good for the tree, and you can use your ...
|
| Korean Lilac | 6/11/2008 |
Q: I am having trouble growing Korean Lilacs. I received 3 of these plants in early May (they were from ...
A: Colleen, This lilac should probably be planted in the ground. Even the dwarf Korean Lilac reaches ...
|
| Gardenias | 6/9/2008 |
Q: When do I cut my gardenias ? Also the leaves have white spots on them and some leaves are black I ...
A: Pat, I have no real-life experience with gardenias as I live in Nebraska but in my database I have ...
|
| Lace cap hydrangea | 6/8/2008 |
Q: I was given a lace cap hydrangea. I am keeping it as a house plant because we live in an area that ...
A: Susanne, I have hydrangeas outdoors and have never tried them indoors. Here is a site that I ...
|
| daylillies | 6/7/2008 |
Q: I just purchased a house on the lake that has a tiered front lawn. A couple of the layers have a ...
A: Rhonda, The National Arboretum website has the best info on dividing day lilies. You'll find it to ...
|
| training a bouganvilla | 6/6/2008 |
Q: I just wanted to know how best to train a bouganvilla to grow through a lattice? Should I keep it ...
A: Debra, I don't have any hands-on experience with this plant but in my research of my books it is ...
|
| Please help-what should i do!!!! | 6/4/2008 |
Q: I gotmy first beautiful pink calla lilly tall and gorgeous-we have had a lot of rain recently but ...
A: Lauren, I would just watch it closely and trim it back to about 6" when it's done blooming. Give ...
|
| Clematis | 5/30/2008 |
Q: I just read your e-mail from Betty regarding Clematis..But, I need to know about relocating my ...
A: Cheryl, Here is a page that will give you all the info you will need. I trim some of my clematis ...
|
| Moving and Storing Perennials | 5/26/2008 |
Q: I am moving from NorthEast Texas to Southern Maine sometime over the next few months and I would ...
A: Meghann, Wait as long as you can to take the plants from the ground, let them revive themselves as ...
|
| Smothering grass/planting ground covering | 5/25/2008 |
Q: Sijka, I've been reading over the Internet that I can create an area for planting in an area where ...
A: Erika, Your method would be fine for all ground covers. Most of them have very little deep root ...
|
| Peonies | 5/25/2008 |
Q: Can a Peony bush be split and what time of the year is best if this can be done?
A: Pam, Peony is a perennial that rarely needs division - a peony clump will grow happily in same ...
|
| Planting | 5/21/2008 |
Q: I am having the toughest time planting store bought container perenials. Invariably they always go ...
A: Mark, When taking the plant from the container you bought it in, leave the soil totally intact ...
|
| Rhododendren | 5/17/2008 |
Q: I live in Ontario, Canada. Last year I was given a Rhododendron plant as a gift. It was in bloom ...
A: Lisa, Here is a website I use for care of rhododendrens http://www.rhodoland.nl/planting_en.htm ...
|
| snap dragons | 5/9/2008 |
Q: I've just planted some snap dragons in my garden. How often should I water them? Is it a good idea ...
A: Mary, Snapdragons are annual flowers but they will "reseed" in the fall and you will have at least ...
|
| datura | 5/4/2008 |
Q: I have been growing this bush or vine for several yearsand have had beautiful flowers. this year the ...
A: Diana, It sounds like it needs to be pruned. All stems are not getting enough nutrients. As the ...
|
| Looking for Shrub | 5/2/2008 |
Q: I live in the Philadelphia, Pa. area. I have a retaing wall that is 2 ft. high. On top of the wall i ...
A: Do you have a Wal-Mart by you?? That's were I buy a lot of my plants. I got these shrubs there 7-8 ...
|
| caladium watering | 4/30/2008 |
Q: how often should I water caladiums that are just now blooming? I hear water everyday but then Im ...
A: Dusty, Water the caladiums when they are dry to the touch. Clover is one of those weeds that ...
|
| Looking for Shrub | 4/29/2008 |
Q: I live in the Philadelphia, Pa. area. I have a retaing wall that is 2 ft. high. On top of the wall i ...
A: Springtime is Here!!! I'm referring you to this website to look through their huge list of shrubs ...
|
| outdoor yucca plant | 4/27/2008 |
Q: I have had a yucca plant in my yard for many years and never had a problem. It is a very dense, ...
A: Mary Lou, I have NO experience with Yucca plants, sorry. Is your holly shrub in full ...
|
| Daffodils | 4/25/2008 |
Q: I bought some Daffodil bulbs last year and did not get them planted. I have had them in the house ...
A: Lisa, I have a bag of the same bulbs that I SHOULD HAVE planted last fall. Check the bulbs over ...
|
| coreopsis plan..inside | 1/17/2008 |
Q: I'm in zone 5 and enjoyed my coreopsis plants ouside this summer. I potted a few of the small ones ...
A: Robert, even outside the coreopsis will go through these cycles. I've never taken one indoors. ...
|
| Acanthus spinosus | 1/12/2008 |
Q: i have an Acanthus spinosus for 2 years that has not flowered,its in a corner nexxt to shed and gets ...
A: Carol, Just from what you've said my guess is that your Acanthus spinosus is not getting enough ...
|
| kalanchoe problem | 12/12/2007 |
Q: I have several kalanchoe in my flower bed, as does my neighbor. This is my first year with them. ...
A: Pat, I've NEVER had any luck with those plants. But here are a couple of websites that may help. ...
|
| cali lily | 11/24/2007 |
Q: I was giving a calla lily for thanksgiven, whitch I loved. How do I take care of it
A: Evelyn, I LOVE Calla Lilies but have only had one that has been a success. I refer you to this ...
|
| honeysuckle and clematis | 10/27/2007 |
Q: This fall I am planning to cut my honeysuckle bush to about 6" off the ground...it is growing ...
A: Terry, I have an "aggressive" honeysuckle and I cut it off every year at the height of the fence ...
|
| calla lily | 10/26/2007 |
Q: I live in Leavenworth, WA. We have snow cover for 3-4 months. Should I bring an outdoor calla lily ...
A: Nancy, As you've already figured out, it's the frost that damages the plant and not always the ...
|
| bleeding hearts | 10/24/2007 |
Q: I live in Ohio. When is the best time of year to move a bleeding heart plant?
A: Cheryl, Fall is the best time. I suggest early fall depending on your growing zone. If you've ...
|
| Grasses | 10/20/2007 |
Q: We live in Michigan, (lower part of the state, close to the Ohio border~if that makes any ...
A: Leslie, Every area of the US has "native grasses" that naturally grow well in that area. Call ...
|
| winter preparation..perennials | 10/13/2007 |
Q: I'm in zone 5..how do I prepare YELLOW ARCHANGEL and JAPANESE SPURGE for winter. Do I cut them down ...
A: Robert, I'm in zone 5 also--and I have both those plants. I do nothing to them in preparation for ...
|
| Silver Mounds | 10/11/2007 |
Q: I planted about 50 feet of Silver Mounds this summer and they were so beautiful in color and size. I ...
A: Richard, You can trim the silvermound whenever you want, but preferably before it gets so tall ...
|
| Calla lilies | 10/3/2007 |
Q: I planted 4 Calla lilies in a partly shady spot, they bloomed well and are still growing. Do I cut ...
A: Debbie, Calla Lilies are hardy to zones 8-10. The National Arboretum just came out with a NEW ...
|
| soil prep before planting | 9/25/2007 |
Q: Im working on a project for an apartment complex in colonial beach va. Spring of 2006 they had 68 ...
A: Edward, I LOVE your question because I have the BEST SUPER SOIL MIXTURE Recipe-we here, in ...
|
| vervain or verbena perennial | 9/22/2007 |
Q: Grew a wonderful vervain plant this season in Maryland and will I be able to divide it; will it ...
A: Sandee, Some varieties of Verbena are winter hardy. I always collect a few of the seeds and once ...
|
| liriope | 9/13/2007 |
Q: I live in Arkansas and planted liriope muscari in our new garden last fall. It looks great but ...
A: Karla, Yes, you are probably right. This plant propagates by seed. I would imagine that if you ...
|
| heat/watering | 9/11/2007 |
Q: i AM IN ARIZONA, IT'S HOT HERE...HOW OFTEN SHOULD I BE WATERING RIGHT NOW? I AM WATERING EVERY DAY ...
A: Susan, It depends on how much you are watering the plants each day. You might dig up around one ...
|
| Raised bed under roof drip line? | 9/9/2007 |
Q: I live in the mountains of Colorado (USDA Zone 4) and several years ago bought a townhouse that has ...
A: Jill, I definitely agree with you on digging out the bed and redoing the soil and starting over. ...
|
| mums | 9/8/2007 |
Q: I just planted quite a few mums under a pine tree. (full sun) I know the soil is acidic, what do I ...
A: Lea, Lime neutralizes acidity in your soil. This enables certain elements which are crucial to ...
|
| Finding the right plant/shrub | 9/3/2007 |
Q: In my front yard, I am trying to create a small border between my neighbors lawn and mine. ...
A: Mike, All of these will flower most of the summer. Roses would be really good and they are not ...
|
| Ruby Slippers | 8/31/2007 |
Q: a.k.a: Argyranthemum frutescens supalight. I live in zone 7 where this is considered an annual. I ...
A: Suzanne, Sorry to tell you this is an annual plant. If you have a garage that is heated(no lower ...
|
| perennals | 8/29/2007 |
Q: I wanted to know what kind of perennals that can be planted in a shady area in the front of my ...
A: Noreen, Even though these plants say they are for only sunny areas-I have had good luck with these ...
|
| Mums | 7/12/2007 |
Q: Can you plant mums in the fall?
A: Judy, Plant mums anytime during the summer or early fall. You may also plant florist mums after ...
|
| ground cover | 7/11/2007 |
Q: What else, besides Alyssum, is a good ground cover and is easy to grow? ANSWER: Sandra, Is the ...
A: Sandra, OK--here I am again--I had a Garage Sale this past weekend and was able to get a list of ...
|
| ground cover | 7/9/2007 |
Q: What else, besides Alyssum, is a good ground cover and is easy to grow?
A: Sandra, Is the area for the ground cover full sun, partial sun, dappled sun or shade? How large ...
|
| FOX GLOVES | 7/7/2007 |
Q: and i was wondering why they are still just three green leaves and not tall yet with no flowers? ...
A: Hollie, I'm directing you to the website I use for Foxglove questions. They have the most ...
|
| Day Lilies | 7/6/2007 |
Q: The tops of my daylilies have turned completely brown and look dead. They just stopped blooming and ...
A: Trisha, if you can stand to see the brown stem, let them be and when they are really dry they will ...
|
| large white cala lilies | 7/5/2007 |
Q: i moved into a new home the end of feb. 2007, this spring to my delite-my favorite flower started to ...
A: Shari, You must live in growing zone 7-8 or 9! I live in 5b and Calla lilies have to be dug up ...
|
| forcing gladiolas | 7/4/2007 |
Q: is it possible to force gladiolas? i'm just planting the bulbs in my garden now, so i won't see ...
A: Elaine, You didn't say which growing zone you are in so I'll just tell you what I do with ...
|
| peonies | 7/2/2007 |
Q: i have had several peony bushes for several years, and they never did flower. they were given to me ...
A: Sarah, If you are in Zone 4--those peonies should be in full sun. This year many areas were hit ...
|
| hydrangea | 6/29/2007 |
Q: I have a hydrangea bush that is now about 10 years old and each year I get about two flowers. One ...
A: Carolyn, I can totally relate to your problem!! There are many reason for a hydrangea to fail to ...
|
| perrenials | 6/24/2007 |
Q: I need to convert two separate garden areas to small green cover/perrenials to lessen my summer ...
A: Robert, I'm so sorry---I must have been tired or just sun beat!! Not even a question about the ...
|
| Chrysanthemum blooming in summer | 6/22/2007 |
Q: I live in northern Alabama. Last fall I planted chrysanthemums in a flower bed, seeing that they are ...
A: Lisa, Isn't this weather pattern changing the blooming habits of the plants?????? I am in ...
|
| asian lily care | 6/16/2007 |
Q: I bought one ..planted it..and it bloomed. Blooms have now fallen off. Will this continue to produce ...
A: Robert, Asiatic lilies bloom one time per growing season. Once they bloom and all the petals fall ...
|
| trimming evergreen bushes | 6/3/2007 |
Q: could you please tell me the best time to trim evergreen bushes? I know that you trim azaleas' in ...
A: Tammy, March or early April is the best time to trim evergreens before new growth appears. They ...
|
| Stella D'oro day lily | 5/31/2007 |
Q: I just bought and planted little roots sets for Stella D'oro lilies. On the box it said plant head ...
A: Greta, If they are just little shoots, planting them 1"-2" deep is fine. I'm assuming they are ...
|
| hydrangea plants | 5/30/2007 |
Q: i have two hydrangea plants in my yard. i just moved in in september so i left them for the winter. ...
A: Barb, Yes, get rid of all the old dead wood. I would use pruning shears if it doesn't come out ...
|
| lantana | 5/28/2007 |
Q: I have a spreading lantana coming back. Can I trail it up a post or fence or should i just let it ...
A: Jamie, I'd LOVE to have a climbing Lantana!!! If it's next to a fence-staple some chicken wire to ...
|
| perennial bed renovation | 5/27/2007 |
Q: I have a large overgrown bed (60’x9’) next to a farmhouse that I would like to renovate, but my ...
A: John, Even if you turn-over or roto-til the weeds under, they are still there and will come back. ...
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| perrenials | 5/22/2007 |
Q: I need to convert two separate garden areas to small green cover/perrenials to lessen my summer ...
A: Robert, I am doing the exact same project--getting into a maintainence stage in the garden. Mine ...
|
| moon flower | 5/21/2007 |
Q: I have seeds from a moon plant, better to plant in sun or shade? I have great luck with perennials, ...
A: Christa, The seeds should be planted in full fun. Propagation of the Moonflower is usually by seed. ...
|
| Endless Summer Hydrangea | 5/20/2007 |
Q: I took some cuttings last fall, and overwintered inside. They did well until recently. Now leaves ...
A: Sharon, What is happening is a natural progression of a plant. I assume you have it in a pot--is ...
|
| Rose of Sharon | 5/19/2007 |
Q: I have a huge Rose of Sharon tree and every year it gets tons of buds on it and they all fall off. ...
A: I really don't know why it hasn't "bloomed", but each year in the late fall you should prune it down ...
|
| peonies | 5/18/2007 |
Q: When is the best time to transplant peonie bushes? I live in Ohio
A: Linda, The best time to transplant peonies is in the fall--the beginning of September, so that ...
|
| Petunias | 5/14/2007 |
Q: I just got a hanging basket of Petunias. Can you tell me how to take care of it (how much water, ...
A: Petunias love sun. They like watering about every three days--or just feel the dirt and if ...
|
| jasmine | 5/11/2007 |
Q: the frost got the top of the bush,should i cut it way down or let it do its own thing
A: John, The word at the Garden Club and at Master Gardener's is to leave the plants and bushes alone ...
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| careof hydrangeas | 5/9/2007 |
Q: HELP!!!!THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR FOR MY HYDRANGEAS,,,,,,,I HAVE THEM IN A LARGE POT ON THE ...
A: Camille, Hydrangeas don't really like full sun. They thrive better in partial sun. Is the pot ...
|
| Azalea and Victoria | 5/3/2007 |
Q: I have had an Azalea for three years now and it's only just flowered this year in early April. I ...
A: Kitty, I LOVE azaleas!!!! I just have never had one. I do take care of several for clients and I ...
|
| Lilies | 5/2/2007 |
Q: I just potted some already-blooming stargazers and now all of the blooms have fallen off. Do I need ...
A: Kelly, I don't know what growing zone you are in but you can sut the stargazer back to about 8-10" ...
|
| Hibiscus | 4/30/2007 |
Q: I have a beautiful hibiscus plant, but it keeps getting bigger every year and it's crowding my other ...
A: Debbie, I've always found that my hibiscus moscheutos tend to overmultiply over time and the ...
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| late afternoon sun for begonias? | 4/24/2007 |
Q: I live in Northern Virginia with a bricked-in patio facing NE. The right wall gets late afternoon ...
A: Darleen, Begonias are out, but last year I saw partial sun Impatiens at Home Depot-didn't try them ...
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| verbena hybrida | 4/22/2007 |
Q: What fertilzer do yall use? How much water? Does it need sun? When the blooms fade away, Do you cut ...
A: Debbie, Verbena be planted in the sunniest, best drained spot in your landscape. It WILL NOT ...
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| perennials | 4/20/2007 |
Q: What are some good flowers to plant under trees, I believe in Louisville, Ky we are zone 6. Also ...
A: I'll give you some perenniel combinations for under your tree. I've started with one about 18-24" ...
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| perennials | 4/19/2007 |
Q: What are some good flowers to plant under trees, I believe in Louisville, Ky we are zone 6. Also ...
A: Francesca, What kinds of trees are you wanting to plant under--and would they be in shade or ...
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| Can My Potted Bulbs Go Outside Now | 4/15/2007 |
Q: I live in zone 6. We are averaging the 40s in the morning and 50s-60s during the day. I recently ...
A: Kimberly, 10 1/2 yrs. ago I had a stroke at the age of 44. I was living in Alaska at the time so ...
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| Any perennials that bloom year round?? | 4/9/2007 |
Q: I am in the 'low desert'--90 miles east of L.A. Any perennials that bloom year round?? (no roses ...
A: Mike--DON'T I WISH!!!!! All perennials have their own blooming time. A good resource to find ...
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| Summer Perennials | 4/2/2007 |
Q: I live in a small town (Poplar Grove) North of Rockford, IL and I'm looking for a summer blooming ...
A: Dawn, There are so many perennials that you can use so I'm going to guide you to the website of ...
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| azalea | 3/30/2007 |
Q: I transferred mine from pot to ground last Fall and mulched it for the winter (zone 5)..northern ...
A: Robert, You've already cut back the stalks so don't touch them (they should only be pruned AFTER ...
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| Spring Planting of Perennials | 3/29/2007 |
Q: I live in Southeast Michigan in zone 6. I've seen perennials in 4 inch pots on sale already. Is it ...
A: Ginny, I am in Nebraska and in growing zone 5b. Right now I'm starting to harden plants. Temps ...
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| Question about Hostas | 3/21/2007 |
Q: I live in Eastern North Carolina. I am going to plant some hostas and I bought a pack of eight ...
A: Hostas are the MOST versatile and forgiving plant ever grown. Yes you can divide the plants you ...
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| gentiana | 3/5/2007 |
Q: when should I plant gentiana makinoi- will they winter over in western ny or is it a house plant?
A: I've never heard of this plant but doing the research--I want it!!! Check out these web sites for ...
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| Poinsettia | 2/14/2007 |
Q: My Poinsettia bush outside my house just started to turn red in late January, how do I get it to ...
A: Forcing Poinsettias Forcing Poinsettias to bloom is a difficult task. Many have tried, but few ...
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| peonies | 12/20/2006 |
Q: I have a peony bush that was my great grandmother's. I am moving from Ohio to Tennessee and would ...
A: Peonies are normally hardy from USDA Zones 2 through 7 or 8. Herbaceous peonies do need days with ...
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| Cutting back Hydrangeas | 11/29/2006 |
Q: Today is November 29... we live on Cape Cod... yesterday our lawn maintenance people came to rake ...
A: I'm going to guide you to a couple of websites: http://www.agnr.umd.edu/users/cmrec/art4.htm ...
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| Zones? | 10/16/2006 |
Q: Just found this site and I am getting ready to do some major landscaping and planting. So I will ...
A: Here are several sites that may help you with your growing zones and types of plants you may want: ...
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| Seed planting | 10/14/2006 |
Q: Is it OK to plant my Purple Cone Flower Seeds this fall instead of waiting till spring? Green Bay, ...
A: If you want to get a headstart on spring, plant your seeds indoors starting in February. Use a ...
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| STARTING PLANTS | 10/4/2006 |
Q: I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW HOW TO PRUNE IMPATIENTS AND BRING THEM INSIDE FOR THE WINTER,,,I LIVE IN PA AND ...
A: I love having my impatient plants inside during the winter-the blossoms make the cold tolerable-I ...
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| lily of the valley invasion | 9/29/2006 |
Q: I live in Mi. zone 6 My question is how do I get rid od lily of the valley that are taking over my ...
A: If you want to get totally rid of them, spray them with "Roots 'n All" or some similiar product that ...
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| day lillies and grasses | 9/29/2006 |
Q: should you cut back day lillies and grasses before winter in zone 5?
A: Daylillies will die back on their own-just rake them clean along with your leaves in the fall. ...
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| Mexican heather | 9/27/2006 |
Q: I live in East Tennessee and have planted this summer five mexican heather bushes. They are great ...
A: Mexican Heather is an annual except in growing zones 8b-11a. You are in zone 6b or 7a. You will be ...
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| Lantana | 9/22/2006 |
Q: I live in Dallas, Tx. My two yellow lantanas are planted on the west side of my garage, but ...
A: Mana- You probably have powdery mildew. It appears as a dusty white to gray coating over leaf ...
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| Rose of Sharon Pruning | 9/12/2006 |
Q: How do you prune a Rose of Sharon to be bushy and tall, instead of just straight up? Where do you ...
A: You can prune the Rose of Sharon after it's blooming has ceased-usually in late fall. I cut any ...
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| what to do for winter | 9/9/2006 |
Q: I live in zone 3 or 4 in Ontario,Can. Could you please tell me what I should do with the following ...
A: I bring in all potted plants that you mentioned. You will need to get some "Jobe's insecticide ...
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| Calla Lilies | 9/8/2006 |
Q: I live in a zone 2b in Canada. I have a beautiful assortment of calla lilies that I planted in the ...
A: I am VERY JEALOUS also!!! You are in the right climate for Calla Lillies. I don't have any "real" ...
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| zone 5b perennials | 4/25/2006 |
Q: I live in upstate New York and I'm fairly new to gardening.I have Rose Bushes and a few perennials ...
A: Here are the best websites that I can give you. Spring Hill Nursery:You put in your zone and what ...
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| "golden sundrops" | 4/18/2006 |
Q: I am new to gardening and I ordered a few different perennials through the mail. One is called ...
A: Yes, plant the sundrops in the ground to the same depth as they are in the planter that you bought ...
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| Groundcovers | 4/11/2006 |
Q: I live in Zone 6, Oklahoma. What groundcover can sustain foot traffic? From full sun to shade? What ...
A: Sorry, I've been madly getting my yard in shape... Groundcovers that you can walk on that I have ...
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| Mums | 11/20/2005 |
Q: Over the year I seem to accumulate several pots of mums. I hate the throw out any living thing, so ...
A: Gigi, Keep Mums cut back to about 8" until at least July 4th. If you are in a mild climate you can ...
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| Peonies | 9/19/2005 |
Q: Three years ago I transplanted peony bulbs from my Mother's garden to my yard. I planted them in ...
A: Jack, You could easily have gotten a mighty PEST that ate away at the root system. Are other ...
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| PLANTING IN S.C. | 9/16/2005 |
Q: I WISH TO PUT IN PERENNIALS THIS FALL. I LIVE IN NORTHERN SOUTH CAROILNA. THE SOIL HERE IS MORE ...
A: Here is my soil mixture that is sure to bring success: Good Soil Mixture: If you do this when you ...
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| Preparing bulbs for winter | 9/3/2005 |
Q: I live in Georgia (Atlanta area) We have iris and day lillies. I have 2 questions - When they ...
A: Carole the iris leaves should be cut back to about 3"-4" in the fall, probably at the end of ...
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| Can you identify this flower for me? | 8/7/2005 |
Q: I saw a flower I'd never seen before in an English garden earlier this year. It's beautiful and ...
A: Liz, It could be a type of anenome. Take the picture to your county extension office, there is ...
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| common daylilies | 7/23/2005 |
Q: zone four, west central MN my bed of daylilies is at the bottom of a small slope in a long sweep of ...
A: If this is the 4th year, my best guess is that they really need to be divided. You need to water ...
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| hosta flowers | 7/16/2005 |
Q: I planted some hostas about 5 weeks ago. One of them has what looks like flowers growing from the ...
A: Joe, There are over 250 different varieties of hosta and each has it's own flower. Some bloom in ...
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| bogonias | 7/15/2005 |
Q: You just recently answered a question for me about bogonias. ...
A: Dennis, Yes, you can bring in your begonias for the winter. When it starts getting cold at night ...
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| Transplanting Peonies | 7/7/2005 |
Q: I have some peonies that I transplanted to their present location some 12 years ago. They have done ...
A: Kelly, Peonies are about the hardiest plants in the world. I've been trying to get rid of some ...
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| Clematis | 7/5/2005 |
Q: The variety of purple clematis I have has much smaller blossoms than the giant variety I have seen ...
A: Irene, Clematis are not picky, you can cut them back or let them be over the winter. I have seen ...
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| indoor or outdoor plant | 7/4/2005 |
Q: My wife recently received as a gift a kalanchoe plant. The question is: is such a plant best suited ...
A: Bob, That plant is an indoors plant. You probably received it in a blooming state. It likes ...
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| Geraniums | 6/28/2005 |
Q: I have geraniums growing in clay flowerpots, about 8" tall, stem thickness 1/2". How do I take care ...
A: Norman, You didn't say what size pots they were in, geraniums need room for their roots to grow. ...
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| transplanting peonies | 6/15/2005 |
Q: I live in southwestern Ontario, Canada. I have 3 peony bushes from my grandmother's garden. They ...
A: Pamela, Peonies can be moved after they are finished blooming, but a better time is in the ...
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| planting perennials | 6/14/2005 |
Q: I have several hostas & daylillies I need to split-is it bad to do this in June or when it is hot? ...
A: Hostas can be divided anytime. Daylilies should be done in the spring but I'be done it after they ...
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| Perennials | 6/6/2005 |
Q: I live in the DFW area of Texas. I have lots of shady oak trees & it's kinda hard to grow/plant ...
A: I've used the Springhill nursery plant finder for most of my plantings. You can put in your ...
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| types of flowers for my area | 6/5/2005 |
Q: I live in Northern Michigan (lower pennisula)and I am all new at this and I'm not sure what types of ...
A: I'm in a hurry today and will add to my letter tomorrow. One of the best sites for information ...
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| Can plants learn? | 1/6/2005 |
Q: This may seem like a silly question, but it seems that my crocus bulbs are learning when to bloom. ...
A: They are not "learning" as WE know learning! They are conditioning more than learning. The ones ...
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| inherited existing garden | 1/6/2005 |
Q: I just bought a home in northwestern Montana with an existing English perennial garden. It is ...
A: This situation calls for the "SURPRISE-Wait and See what comes up" method. Watch in the spring ...
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| Bare root perennials | 12/5/2004 |
Q: Some of the perennials I want to grow are now on sale as bare root at a very good price. I know how ...
A: You may still be able to plant these in the ground. The weather has been changing so much in the ...
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| Iris | 12/4/2004 |
Q: My wife and I purchased a rather large # of iris bulbs (or are they risomes?) at a garage sale ...
A: I've been dividing all my iris (hundreds) and have some that I didn't get into the ground this ...
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| rose of sharon | 8/10/2004 |
Q: Our mom recently passed away with her wish being cremation and then have her ashes planted at my ...
A: Either this fall after all blooming is done or early next spring prune the bush. I prune mine so ...
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| ragosa rose | 7/21/2004 |
Q: I live in a zone 5 climate. Will the ragosa rose survive here? Are there any pest problems ...
A: It really should be ok in your zone. This year there has been so much rain and moisture that ...
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| Gladiolus | 7/20/2004 |
Q: I am a first time gardener, and I must say I am very excited about my new garden. My Gladioli have ...
A: Glads are my favorite and I plant about 200 each year. They are an annual flower, so once they are ...
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| Planting Perennials | 7/14/2004 |
Q: When is the best time to transplant iris in the midwestern region? (Illinois)Some say spring, but ...
A: Sorry, I reread your question and now I can answer your question. Wait until late July to September ...
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| purple wintercreeper | 7/2/2004 |
Q: I have wintercreeper growing on a mound. On the slopes it is green and vigorous, but on top it is ...
A: On the areas that are of poor growth or no growth I would redo the soil. Here is my soil ...
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| Preparing a Perennial Bed | 6/27/2004 |
Q: Sijka, Could you please give me some general pointers on how to prepare a part of a grassy lawn ...
A: First though you MUST prepare your soil. It may be pains-taking but you will see such better results ...
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| soil | 6/25/2004 |
Q: what type of soil is best for perennials? What types of perennials perfer shade?
A: Mary, Thanks for your question. Here is my BEST mix for soil. I have used it for years and ...
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| want to find a certain flower | 6/20/2004 |
Q: Originally from chicago, moved to southern central Illinois,had flowers that we called"Lady ...
A: Elena, I will direct you to several sites to read about the flower: ...
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| transplanting cranesbill | 6/20/2004 |
Q: I have pink cranesbill that I want to transplant to another spot in my garden. However, the area I ...
A: but this year I am overrun with plants. I don't think it would ship very well right now, it really ...
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| transplanting cranesbill | 6/18/2004 |
Q: I have pink cranesbill that I want to transplant to another spot in my garden. However, the area I ...
A: The time to transplant Cranesbill is in the spring or fall. I have, however, done so in the midst ...
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| What to plant? | 6/18/2004 |
Q: I live in the San Diego area and have a nice flower bed outside but, I don't know what to plant that ...
A: There are soooo many plants to choose from that I will refer you to Spring Hill nursery site. At ...
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| hardy mums | 6/18/2004 |
Q: I have many hardy mums that I have gathered through the years. I understand that to make them bush ...
A: I live in growing zone 5 and my rule of thumb on mums is to keep them cut back to about 8" until ...
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| Perennials | 6/17/2004 |
Q: I have about300 perennials in pots to sell next year.How do I winter them over. Can I store them in ...
A: If your shed is heated or at least insulated, the plants MIGHT make it...... but potting them now ...
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| Begonia | 6/6/2004 |
Q: I recently bought a hanging basket of begonia's from Lowes ,, and i didnt think about it until my ...
A: You are BOTH right--depending on the environment you put the Begonia in. In the summer, the ...
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| Butterfly garden | 6/3/2004 |
Q: I have an above ground pool. I would like to plant a butterfly garden, on the one side to sheild ...
A: Yes, bees will be a BIG part of your "pool life" if you plant any flower around your pool!In all ...
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| sunflowers being eaten | 6/2/2004 |
Q: i started some sunflowers from seed and when they seemed ready, i transplanted them to the garden - ...
A: Any kind of insecticide is find to use. The newspaper is a temporary barrier between the ground ...
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| sunflowers being eaten | 6/1/2004 |
Q: i started some sunflowers from seed and when they seemed ready, i transplanted them to the garden - ...
A: It may not be slugs.....The "Rolly-Poly" this year has been VERY bad. They eat everything in ...
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| climbing plants or ivy | 5/21/2004 |
Q: We have installed a split rail fence with screening to keep the dogs safe around our property and ...
A: I have seen Clematis used beautifully on split rail fences. Use chicken wire wrapped around the ...
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| Plant Suggestions | 5/20/2004 |
Q: I'm sorry you are not a fan of peonies. I wouldn't call them my favorite, but they aren't so bad ...
A: Here I am again...and hope I can help you with plant suggestions! Spring blooms Columbine-there ...
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| Specific Peony Hunt | 5/19/2004 |
Q: I am looking for a very specific peony that is very new to the retail market. I don't know the ...
A: I don't know a THING about peonies, I really am not fondof them. But, here are some websites ...
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| transplanting iris | 5/15/2004 |
Q: I notice that the bulbs are pretty much above the ground, with only the roots holding them in. When ...
A: Can you wait until the blossoms are gone and the leaves die off--August?? The leaves need to ...
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| Tulips and Daffodils | 5/15/2004 |
Q: i am planning on moving my flower beds this year and i am wondering when the flowers die can i dig ...
A: The time to dig up bulbs is later towards fall, when the leaves die back. The leaves help to feed ...
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| angels trumpet | 5/14/2004 |
Q: , CAN U TELL ME IF U KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THIS PLANT,, ANGELS TRUMPIT I AM HOPING IT IS ...
A: Go to the following websites to read further about Angel Trumpet plant. They look gorgeous!! ...
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| Mailing Lily of the Valley | 5/12/2004 |
Q: My Lily of the Valley plants are blooming right now. I would like to transplant some to share with ...
A: Right before or right when the Lilies of the Valley start coming up from the ground is the best time ...
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| shade loving perennials | 5/12/2004 |
Q: what perennials will do well in a shady location and when is it best to plant these or any ...
A: NOW is the best time to plant any plants. First though you MUST prepare your soil. It may be ...
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| clematis | 5/11/2004 |
Q: I have a healthy Jackmanii clematis in South Carolina. I want to dig up the roots and transport it ...
A: Depending on how old the plant is, the root system is quite large, so dig up a large ball and put ...
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| flowerinductie | 5/8/2004 |
Q: What can I do to let my perennials flower. They growing well but don't give flowers. Is there some ...
A: First be sure that you have good soil. If it has too much clay, put some sand on top and it will ...
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| perennials/fertilizing | 5/8/2004 |
Q: whats are the best perennials for me to grow in connecticut, i want med flowers that will bloom all ...
A: Not even a question about the spring: Full Sun: Crocus Creeping phlox (3") a ground cover Grape ...
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| Giant American Buttercups | 5/8/2004 |
Q: I have planted some Giant American Buttercup bulbs,about a month ago, this is the first time I have ...
A: There is no book out that shows how a plant looks when it first starts to sprout. Several friends ...
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| plants for a shady area | 5/6/2004 |
Q: I have clay like soil, shade and would like to know what perennials would grow under these ...
A: I would suggest adding some things to your soil for best results, Add sand (1 bg per 4X4 area), ...
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| dividing daylilies | 5/4/2004 |
Q: Can you help me out? I have to divide some daylilies in my Aunt's yard and I have no clue how to do ...
A: If YOU can kill daylilies--you'll be the first!! T o divide them just use a "straight" edged ...
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| Hypericum moserianum tri-color | 5/3/2004 |
Q: Do you have experience with hypericum moserianum tri-color? If so, does it need deadheading or ...
A: For info on the St. John's Wort see: ...
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| lavender | 4/30/2004 |
Q: I live in south western New Hampshire and would like to plant lavender in front of my home. I have a ...
A: Lavender is not a hardy plant. There are MANY kinds of lavender though. Please go to these ...
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| SHADED AREAS | 4/28/2004 |
Q: I have a large shade RAISED BERMED bed in my yard(MAINE) I have rhodendrons there now. This wintwer ...
A: I'm going to send you to these websites for your answer, there are soooooo many plants but you ...
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| Ferns | 4/28/2004 |
Q: Someone told me that Ferns dont do well with other plants because they are allelopathic - they ...
A: Forget the ferns--they will take over anyother plant near it! Any hosta will work for you. ...
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| Planting next to a house | 4/28/2004 |
Q: I have a brick house with landscape timbers for flowerbeds. What kinds of perennials do better in ...
A: This is such a HUGE question. I am going to refer you to several websites. PERENNIALS FOR ...
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| bank of pond | 4/26/2004 |
Q: I'm in Minnesota, I want to plant some perennials on the banks of a pond. Any suggestions? Thanks, ...
A: Here are some websites that will answer your question! ...
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| Lilies | 4/25/2004 |
Q: I got a 4" lilies (tiger I think; it's orange) from Safeway (grocery store) and it is just about ...
A: You can try to get them to grow again outside. I would suggest planting them now and when the ...
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| Flowering Garden on the south-southeast of the house | 4/7/2004 |
Q: ...I have a great area in the back of my house that comes out about 12 feet from the house on the ...
A: You really have to "work the dirt" first! Your soil should be top soil, compost, , sand, cedar ...
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| Dividing Hostas | 4/4/2004 |
Q: Help! Need info on how to divide Hostas--when, how, THX
A: Hostas are the most eaasily dividable plant. They are all forgiving! Wait until the hosta are ...
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| Fertilizing | 3/31/2004 |
Q: Last year I planted several azaleas, boxwoods, a skip laurel, an american holly and 2 alberta ...
A: I do 2 things EVERY spring: --sprinkle "Preen" weed preventer around ALL my plants and shrubs--I ...
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| planting | 3/25/2004 |
Q: can I leave a gardenia in the ground year around?
A: I don't think you should leave it in the ground-it all depends on where you live. With the funny ...
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| Hydrangea | 3/25/2004 |
Q: We have a Nikko Blue Hydrangea that always blooms pink. I was told I need to add acid to the soil ...
A: I have that same plant-but I have trouble getting it to bloom--what do you do??? An important ...
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| Shade garden | 3/20/2004 |
Q: My Wisconsin cabin is about 20-25 feet from the lake. The shore line is rip-rapped with rocks to ...
A: Even though these plants say they are for only sunny areas-I have had good luck with these in ...
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| starting out | 3/18/2004 |
Q: Another lady and I are wanting to plant a flower bed at church. It will be in a brick area ...
A: Ginger, What a wonderful idea. I need to know what "growing zone" you live in....if you don't ...
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| Candytuft | 3/18/2004 |
Q: I have a bag of candytuft seeds that I would like to plant on an embankment (About 800 seeds). I ...
A: Oh, you lucky person!! I LOVE candytuft!! They are one of my favorites for walls and embankments! ...
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